Some people’s hearts skipped a beat just by reading the last two words of the title up there. Well, whether you like it or not, business meetings are just one of those activities you have to engage in as a business owner or professional in a business organisation, and it’s expected you make a good impression, regardless of whom you’re meeting. So, if you’re one of those struggling to keep up with all the unspoken rules of a business meeting, we’re here to help your career. Allow us, please. Below are some tips on proper business etiquettes.

Arrive on time: “African time” does not apply here. Save that for the owambe you’ll be attending this weekend. This is a gathering of professionals and it is required that you act ethically by arriving on time. Believe us, nobody will be interested in listening to your well-concocted stories as to why you had to come late. Respect yourself.

Avoid unnecessary distractions: We know business meetings could get boring, and you contemplate sneaking into the streets of  Twitter or pop a piece of gum in your mouth. Hold on, don’t do it. Nemesis is when you mistakenly smack the gum you’ve been chewing in the midst of a discussion. Just know it’s the end of the road for you and don’t even bother saying your village people are after you. You’re the one after yourself. A word is enough for the wise.

Do not interrupt others: Taken, you want to flaunt your professional know-howism but remember that others are as entitled as you are to make suggestions and give their opinions on the issues being discussed. So just relax, you’ll have your moment. Okrrr.

Dress properly: How you dress speaks volumes about you. People can discern the weight of your bank account, your level of sophistication and your professional acumen from the way you dress. Remember you’re meeting people you probably haven’t met before, so knock them out with your good dress sense so that when you enter, they’ll know that someone has entered. You get the gist, right? Check out some cool style inspiration here.

Avoid side conversations: Business meetings can spring forth an ambience of excitement especially during heated discussions. While it’s very much required that you participate actively in these discussions, you are not allowed to let go of your professional conduct even for a split second. The last thing you want to be caught doing is misbehaving in front of a business partner. Neither will your boss.

Follow these laid down tips and you can be sure to kill every business meeting any time, any day.

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